Introduction
So, you might be dealing with a narcissist (or a really confident cat in human form). We all have that one friend who turns every conversation into a TED Talk about themselves. You mention your dog is sick, and somehow, you’re hearing about their childhood trauma involving a goldfish. Congratulations — you might be dealing with a narcissist. Or a theater major. It’s hard to tell sometimes.
What Is a Narcissist, Really?
In psychological terms, narcissism involves an inflated sense of self-importance, a desperate need for admiration, and the emotional range of a toaster. But in everyday terms, it’s that person who treats group chats like a solo diary, interrupts your heartbreak story to talk about their ex, and somehow makes your birthday dinner all about them.
Top Signs You’re in the Presence of a Narcissist
- They could win gold in competitive selfie-taking.
- They have a PhD in humble bragging. (“Ugh, I hate being the most successful person in the room!”)
- They ghost you — then return like they’re doing you a favor.
- They treat empathy like a software update they keep forgetting to install.
- They name-drop so often you wonder if they’re in a one-person LinkedIn musical.
Life with a Narcissist: A Sitcom You Didn’t Sign Up For
One moment you’re the center of their universe. The next, you’re orbiting their ego like a distant planet wondering what happened. Trying to have a meaningful conversation with them is like trying to cuddle a cactus — painful, and somehow, it’s still your fault when you get hurt.
The Narcissist Apology Template™
“I’m sorry you felt that way.”
Translation: “I did nothing wrong but here’s a word that sounds like accountability!”
Can Narcissists Change?
Technically, yes. But so can your houseplants if you talk to them every day, water them gently, and wait seven years. Narcissists can change with therapy, but only if they acknowledge they’re not perfect. Which, for them, is like asking a cat to admit it knocked the glass off the table on purpose. (It did.). Gosh, dealing with a narcissist can be challenging.
How to Survive (Without Losing Your Sanity)
- Set boundaries like your life depends on it.
- Don’t expect them to validate you — use a mirror for that.
- Journal, scream into a pillow, meditate, or adopt a turtle (low drama).
- Remember: Their drama isn’t your responsibility — unless you’re a reality show producer.
Conclusion
Dealing with a narcissist is like being stuck in a group project where one person talks the whole time and you do all the work. If you’ve recognized someone from this post, take heart: humor is healing, and so is learning to put yourself first — especially when they never will.
And if you are the narcissist… thanks for reading this far. Honestly, impressive. Now go tell everyone how humble you are. If you want EMDR therapy or Self-Awareness Coaching, please contact Sobair.com. For more information read this excellent book on self-awareness: The Astonishing Power of Self-Awareness.